In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, during road expansion, a bulldozer action took place against illegal encroachments. Approximately 35 shops were demolished in the Lanka area. Among those razed were the historic 'Chachi's Kachori' and 'Pahalwan Lassi' shops, beloved by locals and tourists alike. These renowned establishments, visited daily by hundreds, were turned to rubble overnight during the anti-encroachment drive.
It’s noteworthy that the initiative to widen the city's roads has commenced, leading to the removal of encroachments along the Ravidas Gate Road in the Lanka area. Several shops were demolished by bulldozers in the presence of police and administrative forces. Following the removal of encroachments, the construction of a four-lane road will commence here.
Source: aajtak
The impact of this Public Works Department action included Varanasi's famous 'Pahalwan Lassi' and 'Chachi's Kachori', which were bulldozed. Shopkeepers were given prior notice, with many vacating their premises voluntarily. However, some retailers alleged inadequate time for clearance.
As night fell and the administration team arrived with heavy police presence, shopkeepers scrambled to pack up their goods. The sight of bulldozers on these decades-old establishments moved 'Pahalwan Lassi' vendors emotionally, as local residents, alongside police, consoled them. The spotlight now turns to what steps Varanasi administration will take regarding rehabilitation and compensation.
